About the Festival
The Ayala Triangle Gardens Festival of Lights is a renowned event that celebrates the holiday season in a unique and dazzling way. The festival features a mesmerizing light and sound show that transforms the garden into a magical realm of colors and patterns. It’s a breathtaking experience that attracts both locals and tourists, making it a must-see during the holiday season.
The Ayala Triangle Gardens is a 2-hectare landscaped urban park in Makati, Metro Manila, Philippines. It is a triangular public garden and courtyard in the center of the Makati Central Business District. It was named after its owner and developer Ayala Land, and opened to the public on November 19, 2009.
Festival Dates (2023-24)
The Festival of Lights at Ayala Triangle Garden is typically held from November to January, with specific dates varying each year. For the 2023-24 season, you can expect the festival to take place within these months, making it an ideal activity to add to your holiday itinerary.
Festival Location and How to Get There
The Ayala Triangle Garden is located in the heart of Makati City, Philippines. The full address is Ayala Triangle Garden, Paseo de Roxas St, Makati, 1209 Metro Manila, Philippines. Getting there is convenient, with various transportation options available. You can take buses, trains, or even opt for car rental services. The Makati Central Business District is well-connected, ensuring that reaching the festival is hassle-free.
Festival Hours
The festival typically operates in the evenings, from around 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. The evening hours allow visitors to fully immerse themselves in the captivating light show, creating a magical ambiance that’s perfect for a night out with friends, family, or a special someone.
Admission Cost
One of the remarkable aspects of the Festival of Lights at Ayala Triangle Garden is that it’s usually free to enter. This means you can enjoy the mesmerizing display without worrying about purchasing tickets. It’s a fantastic way for people of all ages to experience the joy of the holiday season.
Weather and Attire
During the festival dates, Makati City enjoys a pleasant tropical climate. Temperatures typically range from 24°C to 31°C (75°F to 88°F), creating a comfortable environment for outdoor activities. It’s advisable to wear light and breathable clothing, along with comfortable walking shoes. Carrying a light jacket or sweater might be a good idea for the cooler evenings.
Where to Stay: Nearby Hotels
For those looking to stay near the festival, here are three to five hotels in the vicinity:
Makati Shangri-La, Manila
Review: The Makati Shangri-La is renowned for its luxurious accommodations, impeccable service, and elegant atmosphere. Guests often praise the hotel’s spacious rooms, stunning views, and extensive facilities.
Rates : Prices can vary based on room type, time of year, and availability. On average, you might expect rates to start from around $150 to $300 USD per night for standard rooms.
The Peninsula Manila
Review: The Peninsula Manila is a five-star hotel known for its classic charm and top-notch hospitality. Guests appreciate its central location, luxurious amenities, and exceptional dining options.
Rates : Rates typically range from $180 to $350 USD per night for standard rooms, with variations based on room category and season.
Dusit Thani Manila
Review: Dusit Thani Manila is a well-regarded hotel that combines Thai-inspired elegance with modern comfort. The hotel is praised for its friendly staff, comfortable rooms, and convenient location.
Rates : Room rates usually fall in the range of $100 to $250 USD per night, depending on room type and seasonal factors.
Fairmont Makati
Review: The Fairmont Makati is known for its contemporary design, luxurious ambiance, and excellent service. Guests often highlight the hotel’s stylish rooms, upscale amenities, and proximity to shopping and dining.
Rates : Rates can vary, with standard room rates ranging from approximately $150 to $300 USD per night.
Holiday Inn & Suites Makati
Review: The Holiday Inn & Suites Makati offers a comfortable and convenient stay with a focus on modern amenities. Guests appreciate the hotel’s value for money, friendly staff, and central location.
Rates : Room rates are relatively affordable, typically ranging from around $80 to $150 USD per night.
Where to Eat: Dining Options
1. Wildflour Café + Bakery
Location: Various branches, including Salcedo Village and Legaspi Village in Makati City.
Specialty: Wildflour is renowned for its delectable array of freshly baked goods, brunch offerings, and gourmet coffee. The menu features a mix of international and local flavors.
Review: Wildflour is a charming café and bakery loved for its cozy ambiance, artisanal bread, and mouth-watering pastries. The café’s commitment to quality ingredients shines through in every bite.
Rates: On average, a meal here can cost around $15 to $25 USD per person.
2. Lusso Restaurant
Location: Greenbelt 5, Ayala Center, Makati City.
Specialty: Lusso offers a refined dining experience with a menu that combines European and Asian cuisines. It’s known for its elegant ambiance and top-notch service.
Review: Lusso is praised for its upscale atmosphere, attentive staff, and exquisite dishes that cater to a variety of palates. The restaurant is often recommended for special occasions.
Rates : A meal at Lusso can range from approximately $50 to $100 USD per person, depending on the courses and selections.
3. The Wholesome Table
Location: Various branches, including Salcedo Village in Makati City.
Specialty: The Wholesome Table focuses on healthy and organic dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. The menu includes a mix of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
Review: This restaurant is celebrated for its dedication to providing nutritious and delicious meals. Guests appreciate the variety of dietary choices and the restaurant’s commitment to sustainability.
Rates : The cost for a meal at The Wholesome Table can range from around $20 to $40 USD per person.
4. Mamou Too!
Location: Power Plant Mall, Rockwell Center, Makati City.
Specialty: Mamou Too! is known for its steak and comfort food offerings. It’s a popular spot for those craving hearty and indulgent dishes.
Review: Mamou Too! is a go-to for meat lovers and those seeking classic, comforting flavors. Guests often mention the quality of the steaks and the cozy ambiance.
Rates : A meal at Mamou Too! can cost approximately $30 to $50 USD per person, depending on the choices.
More Things to Do in the Area
While visiting the Festival of Lights, consider exploring other attractions and activities in the area:
1. Ayala Museum
Overview: Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Philippine history and culture at the Ayala Museum. With its diverse range of exhibits, including meticulously crafted dioramas and interactive showcases, this esteemed institution offers profound insights into the nation’s historical journey.
Location: Find solace within the heart of Greenbelt Park at the junction of Makati Avenue and De La Rosa Street, Makati City.
Highlights: Engage in an immersive “Diorama Experience” that brings pivotal episodes of Philippine history to life, explore contemporary art installations, and delve into the nuances of indigenous cultures.
Admission : Entry rates typically range from $5 to $10 USD per person, with discounts available for students and seniors.
2. Greenbelt Mall
Overview: Experience a harmonious fusion of upscale retail therapy, local boutiques, and diverse dining at Greenbelt Mall. Its open-air design sets the stage for a leisurely ambiance while indulging in shopping and culinary delights.
Location: Nestled within the prestigious Ayala Center, Makati City.
Highlights: Engage in a retail journey featuring luxury and local brands, relish diverse international cuisines at dining destinations, and embrace the tranquility of beautifully landscaped surroundings.
Access: No admission fee; expenses are associated with shopping and dining.
3. Yuchengco Museum
Overview: A bastion of contemporary art and cultural exhibitions, the Yuchengco Museum presents a curated collection of Philippine and global artworks. Its dynamic programming includes rotating exhibitions and interactive engagements.
Location: Situated within the prominent RCBC Plaza, at the intersection of Ayala and Senator Gil J. Puyat Avenues, Makati City.
Highlights: Immerse yourself in the ebb and flow of changing art exhibitions, unlock insights into Philippine cultural narratives through artistic expression, and participate in a range of workshops and enlightening lectures.
Admission: Entrance fees typically range from $3 to $5 USD per guest, with concessions for students, seniors, and group visits.
4. Poblacion District
Overview: Embrace the vibrant pulse of Makati’s nightlife at the Poblacion District. This lively enclave features an array of trendy bars, distinctive culinary establishments, and entertainment venues catering to diverse preferences.
Location: Encompassing the spirited Poblacion precinct, Makati City.
Highlights: Delight in a culinary journey across a diverse landscape, immerse yourself in live music performances, experience the district’s dynamic nightlife, and explore the immersive cultural scene.
Cost: Expenses vary based on individual choices for dining, libations, and entertainment.
References: https://mb.com.ph/2022/11/11/festival-of-lights-at-ayala-triangle-gardens-is-finally-back/
https://www.tatlerasia.com/lifestyle/others/whats-in-store-for-ayala-this-christmas-2022
